Green Euro-MP demands Tibet human rights investigation
26 March 2008
Use Olympics as leverage on human rights says Lucas
Brighton and Hove's Green Party MEP Caroline Lucas has added her voice to international calls for an end to violence in Chinese-occupied Tibet, and the recognition of Tibet’s right to self determination.
The Brighton-based Euro-MP (pictured centre) called for the European Union to send a special envoy to Tibet.
An independent investigation into human rights violations in Tibet should be launched, she says, including investigating the right to free speech, freedom to practice religion, and the right to self-determination.
Dr Lucas said: "People worldwide are appalled at the images of violence and repression we are seeing from Chinese-occupied Tibet, yet EU governments have been unforgivably timid in their responses.
"European leaders rightly condemn human rights abuses in Burma and Zimbabwe, and it is increasingly difficult not to conclude that the desire not to upset trading relations with China is persuading the West to put money before morality.”
She continued: "I call upon our governments to use every possible political and diplomatic instrument to change China’s policy in Tibet.
"In particular, the EU should appoint a special envoy for Tibet, just as it has for Burma, and demand that China allows for an independent investigation into human rights violations.
"People supporting China’s hosting of the Olympics have argued that it gives us leverage to influence China on human rights.
"If that is the case, we need to use that lever and be prepared to boycott aspects of the Games unless China acts.
"The Chinese government must end human rights abuses, release political prisoners, and allow full media access within Tibet."
www.carolinelucasmep.org.uk
Notes to editors:
Media: for more information please contact Lizzie Deane, Green Party External Communications Coordinator, on 07931 231390.[ENDS]
